Idaho jurors could get first raise since 1968

Here's a news item from the Associated Press: BOISE, Idaho (AP) — After 45 years of paying jurors no more than $10 daily, Idahoans called for jury duty could soon be paid up to $50 for each day they serve in court. The House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee voted unanimously to advance legislation Tuesday that gives county commissioners the option to boost juror pay. People who serve a half day would get up to $25, up from $5 under current law. Coeur d'Alene Republican Rep. Kathy Sims said many counties have trouble attracting jurors at current rates, which she said hardly covers the cost of gas for people driving from rural areas to court. She said the measure gives counties flexibility to make the change if they have room in their budgets. Sims is co-sponsoring the bill with Rep. John Gannon, D-Boise; the measure now moves to the full House for debate.